Infection and Sepsis Management in Trauma

Infection may be the cause, consequence, or complication of traumatic injury. Issues concerning the prophylaxis, diagnosis, and management of infection and sepsis in victims of trauma continue to be daily challenges for clinicians, despite the advent of novel diagnostic tests. Up to 50% of fever episodes in trauma patients admitted to an intensive care unit are due to non-infective causes. An understanding of the pathobiology of infection and sepsis in trauma is essential, and a pragmatic approach to evaluate for infection is crucial to avoid poor antimicrobial stewardship. At the same time, appreciating the risk and fatal consequences of undiagnosed sepsis in this patient cohort requires a high index of suspicion and prompt intervention.